Enhancing Weather Resilience - A Straightforward Advice to Consider
The German Weather Service (DWD) has introduced a useful tool for those who are sensitive to weather changes. The service provides weather sensitivity hazard indices on its website, which are displayed on an overview map of Germany. These indices are designed to assess the impact of the predicted weather on the health of weather-sensitive people. The map uses a simple color scale to indicate whether the weather will have a positive, negative, or no impact on their well-being. Prof. Martin Scherer, the director of the Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), has highlighted the potential effects of weather conditions on the autonomic nervous system. He has stated that rapid changes in temperature, air pressure, or humidity can cause symptoms such as circulatory problems, dizziness, or general discomfort. Spending less time outdoors due to office work or similar conditions may exacerbate weather sensitivity. Dry air, for instance, can make mucous membranes dry out, making individuals more susceptible to pathogens. This is why Prof. Scherer advises daily walks in any weather to help the body adapt to temperature changes and better tolerate them. Movement and spending time outdoors can also help alleviate weather sensitivity symptoms. However, it's important to be careful in low temperatures and dry air to avoid weakening the immune system. The indices provided by the DWD also offer information about possible effects on general well-being, asthmatic diseases, and rheumatic and cardiovascular complaints. If weather-related symptoms persist for a longer period, it is recommended to consult a general practitioner for a better understanding and management of these symptoms. It's worth noting that weather sensitivity is a real condition, not just imagination. Changes in weather can lead to circulatory problems, dizziness, or general discomfort. Prof. Scherer, who is also the president of the German Society of General Practice and Family Medicine (DEGAM), emphasizes that these weather changes should not be underestimated. In conclusion, the weather sensitivity hazard indices provided by the German Weather Service can help weather-sensitive individuals make informed decisions about outdoor activities. By being aware of the potential impacts of weather changes and taking necessary precautions, individuals can better manage their symptoms and maintain their health.
